Pizza is an all-time favorite, but let’s face it—traditional crusts often come loaded with refined flour, which can leave us feeling sluggish and unsatisfied. That’s why this chickpea pizza crust is a game-changer. By swapping out the usual refined flours for nutrient-packed chickpeas, this gluten-free option gives you all the satisfaction of pizza without the guilt.

Chickpeas bring a wealth of nutrition to the table: they’re high in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this crust both filling and nourishing. Whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake, avoid gluten, or simply enjoy a healthier take on pizza, this recipe has you covered.

What sets this chickpea crust apart is its balance of texture and nutrition. It bakes up with a soft yet crispy finish, perfect for holding all your favorite toppings without getting soggy. Plus, chickpeas have a low glycemic index, which helps regulate blood sugar, ideal for anyone who wants to indulge while staying mindful of their diet. If you’re looking to make pizza night both delicious and nutritious, this chickpea crust will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Nutritional Benefits of Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a powerhouse legume that should be a regular part of your diet. They’re an excellent source of protein, especially for those following a plant-based lifestyle, and they help promote satiety, keeping you full longer. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and supports heart health. Chickpeas are loaded with vitamins like folate, essential for cell function, and minerals like iron, which are crucial for preventing fatigue and maintaining energy levels. Incorporating chickpeas regularly can help balance blood sugar and reduce cholesterol, making them an ideal addition to your meals, even in pizza crusts!

Ingredients

For the pizza crust:

• ½ cup (90 g) raw chickpeas or 1 cup soaked chickpeas
• ½ cup sour cream or yogurt
• 1 egg
• ⅛ tsp. salt
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• ½ tsp. baking powder

For the toppings:

• ½ cup (125 g) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp. dried oregano (or pizza seasoning)
• 60 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 15 g black olive slices
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Soak the raw chickpeas overnight in room-temperature water. They will double in size, yielding about 1 cup of soaked chickpeas.
2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly the next day.
3. Blend the chickpeas together with sour cream, egg, and salt until smooth.
4. Add the olive oil and baking powder, blending until just combined.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), grease a baking dish, and line it with parchment paper.
6. Pour the chickpea mixture into the dish, smoothing out the surface evenly.
7. Bake for 30 minutes until the crust is golden and fully cooked.
8. Allow the crust to cool slightly, then spread the tomato sauce evenly over it.
9. Sprinkle oregano on top, followed by the mozzarella cheese and olive slices.
10. Bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes + 10 minutes
Servings: 4 slices

Nutritional Information (per slice):

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 11.24 g
• Fat: 13.05 g
• Carbohydrates: 20.02 g
• Fiber: 3.6 g

Storage and Recommendations:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• The crust can be pre-baked and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it before adding toppings and baking.